Prosecutors hope for multiple life sentences for Andalusia pastor accused of molesting boys

ANDALUSIA -- Prosecutors plan to seek multiple life sentences if they get a conviction against a former Andalusia pastor accused of sexual abuse and torture of young boys on camping trips.

Covington County deputies arrested 54-year-old Ralph Lee Aaron on Wednesday on 152 counts of sodomy, sexual abuse, sexual torture and possession of obscene matter involving children. Aaron was fired as pastor of Grace Christian Fellowship Church after he was arrested and held on $24.2 million bond.

His attorney, Al Smith of Andalusia, did not immediately return a phone message Thursday.

Most of the counts involved possession of obscene material. District Attorney Greg Gambril said there were three counts each of sodomy and sexual torture, which he said involved a sex toy.

Gambril said the sheriff's department has put together a "very strong case" and that the state will be seeking multiple life sentences.

"The community needs to remain in prayer for the families of these victims as well as the members of the church where Mr. Aaron was the pastor," he said.

The church did not have a phone listing and there was no immediate comment from church officials or congregants.

The case began last week after a mother who had heard rumors about a 2005 incident involving Aaron spoke with her son and contacted authorities. Sheriff's investigators later removed a camera and computer from his home.